Apollo Nida's Prison Release -- He'll Do Anything To Get Out Early

According to court documents obtained by TMZ ... the "Real Housewives of Atlanta" cast member agreed to a 500-hour "intense" drug treatment program during his 8 year sentence -- even though he's not currently addicted to anything.

Law enforcement sources connected to the case tell us Apollo only got into the program because he has a prior DUI -- and we're told his real motivation is lowering his sentence.

Inmates who successfully complete the program typically get early releases.